🚨 2025 BMW M5 F90: Emergency Neutral
The 2025 M5 (G90 platform, plug-in hybrid) uses BMW's electronic gear selector lever on the center console.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the parking brake is firmly engaged
- Attempt to turn the ignition to accessory mode (position 1 or 2); if battery is completely dead, see no-power notes below
- Depress and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Locate the shift-lock override cover near the shifter base (typically on the left side or front of the shifter housing)
- Remove the override cover using a flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override and brake pedal, move the shifter to neutral (N)
- IMPORTANT: Activate transport mode through iDrive (Car > Settings > Transport Mode) if battery has sufficient charge, which will release the electronic parking brake and prepare the drivetrain for flat-towing
Shift-lock override location
Near the shifter base on the center console; exact location may vary from F90 generation—check left side or front of shifter housing for a small cover
With zero electrical power
The electronic shifter and parking brake system require 12V power. With a completely dead battery, you must jump-start the 12V system to at least accessory power before using the shift-lock override. If the high-voltage battery is also depleted, the 12V system may not charge normally. Without any power, the vehicle cannot be shifted and must be loaded onto a flatbed with all wheels free.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
The 2025 M5 is a plug-in hybrid with an electric parking brake and complex drivetrain. FLATBED TOWING ONLY. Do not attempt to tow with any wheels on the ground without activating transport mode through the vehicle's menu system. Towing with wheels down without transport mode engaged can severely damage the electric motors and transmission. If transport mode cannot be activated due to power loss, the vehicle must be loaded with all wheels off the ground.